Cobblestone throat refers to small bumps on the back of your throat that arise with inflammation. While it’s normal to worry when you see these bumps, they’re harmless and will usually go away with the inflammation.
Let’s look at a few common causes of cobblestone throat and what you can do to treat them.
Allergies
Exposure to irritants you’re sensitive to, like pollen, pet dander, dust mites or mold, can swell your face, tongue and throat, causing cobblestone throat. Depending on the severity of your allergies, you may be able to control your symptoms with daily medications like antihistamines and decongestants.
Avoiding your allergy triggers is another way to minimize your symptoms. A few helpful avoidance tactics include:
- Clean your house regularly to minimize mold, dust and pet dander
- Bathe your pets weekly
- Close your windows during the summer or use pollen window screens
- Avoid plant or grass-heavy areas like parks or the Missouri Botanical Garden during high pollen days
If your allergies are severe or you don’t know what’s causing them, contact Midwest ENT Centre for a testing and treatment appointment with one of our allergy specialists.
Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip is when mucus builds up and drips down the back of your throat. It is a symptom of other conditions like allergies, colds and flu, bacterial infections and acid reflux. Common postnasal drip symptoms include a persistent cough, frequent swallowing and hoarseness. The resulting inflammation from the mucus drip can lead to cobblestone throat.
Since postnasal drip is typically a symptom of another condition, the first step in treating it is to address the underlying cause. Common treatments include but are not limited to taking allergy or cold and flu medication, antacids and antibiotics.
Staying hydrated with warm liquids like soup and tea can also help thin excess mucus and minimize postnasal drip.
GERD
GERD, or chronic acid reflux, causes stomach acid to flow back up the esophagus (the tube connecting your throat to your stomach). If the stomach acid reaches your throat, it can inflame the tissue and cause the bumps. GERD arises when the valve at the bottom of your esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), weakens or relaxes enough to let acid pass through.
You may be able to manage mild GERD by making simple diet and lifestyle changes, like avoiding spicy foods, eating smaller meals, and staying upright after eating. If your GERD is severe, an ENT specialist can help you find the right treatment—whether lifestyle changes, medication or surgery.
How Long Will My Cobblestone Throat Last?
If a viral infection is causing your cobblestone throat, the bumps should resolve as you recover. However, if they persist, conditions like GERD, postnasal drip or allergies may be to blame. See an ENT specialist if symptoms worsen after a few days of home care or if you experience severe throat pain or difficulty breathing.
Contact Midwest ENT Centre today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.